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MTB trails
United States
Minnesota
Dakota County

Apple Valley

The best MTB trails around Apple Valley

4.9

(36)

541

riders

20

rides

Mountain biking around Apple Valley offers diverse experiences across its varied landscapes. The region features a network of trails winding through desert terrain, mountain foothills, extensive park systems, and river greenways. Riders can explore routes that traverse open valleys, rocky hills, and natural habitats, providing options for different skill levels. This blend of high desert and mountain proximity creates a compelling environment for outdoor activities.

Best mountain bike trails around Apple Valley

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Parking…

Last updated: April 30, 2026

4.5

(2)

84

riders

#1.

Black Loop – Skills Park loop from Gerhardt Lake

9.13km

00:47

70m

70m

Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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Hard

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

28

riders

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

tcbscott
March 5, 2026, Murphy-Hanrehan Singletrack Trailhead

Challenging biking, I've only done the beginner and intermediate. I like the beginner loop a lot, out in the prairie, fast packed sand with some small jumps.

1

0

There is now a "bridge" made out of a fallen tree with planks nailed to it and a rope hand rail.

1

0

The last time I got here this summer, the logs were not here, so it was a water crossing, this is better!

1

0

tcbscott
July 15, 2025, Orchard Lake

There is a nice small playground here and some picnic tables and a nice shelter. No bathrooms though.

0

0

tcbscott
July 15, 2025, Orchard Lake

Parking by the dock is only for trailers. The car parking is over by the playground and has a human powered boat launch. Unfortunately that launch was filled with milfoil and a dead pan fish, but I used it anyway.

0

0

Murphy-Hanrehan has miles of singletrack trails suited to riders of all abilities. Most of the trails would be considered easy by experienced riders, and the majority of technical features have ride arounds, so even beginners should be able to complete the loop. A hardtail mountain bike is more than enough to handle the terrain and experience riders could probably handle it on a hybrid or gravel bike.

0

0

Jamie S.
June 11, 2025, Orchard Lake

Orchard Lake, located in Lakeville, Minnesota (just south of Apple Valley), is a scenic, medium-sized lake popular for fishing, paddling, and quiet lakeside strolls. The public access point is on the west side at Orchard Lake Park, which features a boat launch, small beach area, picnic shelters, and restrooms. For cyclists, Orchard Lake is a nice detour—especially if you're piecing together a ride through Lakeville’s suburban greenways and park system. While there's no dedicated loop trail around the lake, the surrounding residential roads are bikeable and relatively calm. It’s a good spot to stop for a break, enjoy lake views, or link up with nearby parks like Casperson or Antlers if you’re looking to extend your ride.

0

0

Zachary
June 3, 2025, Orchard Lake

The lake is a popular spot for fishing, and has a small park with water access here on the south shore. There is also a beach area with restrooms on the west side of the lake, which makes for a great spot to watch the sun rise before an early ride.

0

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Apple Valley?

Apple Valley offers a network of over 20 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 12 easy, 5 moderate, and 6 difficult options available for exploration.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Apple Valley?

Yes, Apple Valley has 12 easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which is 15.2 miles long and offers scenic river views. Another easy route is the Skills Park loop from Savage, a shorter 2-mile ride.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Apple Valley?

The mountain bike trails in Apple Valley traverse diverse landscapes, including extensive park systems and river greenways. You'll find routes winding through wooded areas and along picturesque lakes, with varied terrain suitable for different ability levels.

Are there any mountain bike trails with scenic viewpoints or natural features?

Absolutely. Many trails offer scenic views, particularly along the Minnesota River. For example, the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop and the View of the Minnesota River – Artesian Well loop both provide beautiful river vistas. You can also find highlights like the View of the Mississippi River and the Observation Platform on Black Dog Lake near the trails.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Apple Valley?

The mountain biking experience in Apple Valley is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the well-maintained trails, and the scenic beauty of the river views and park systems.

Are there any specific trails for advanced mountain bikers looking for a challenge?

Yes, for advanced riders, there are 6 difficult trails. The Skills Park – Black Loop loop from Savage is a popular choice, offering technical challenges within a dedicated skills park area over 7.5 miles.

Are there any mountain bike trails that offer amenities like water fountains or parking?

Yes, some routes are known for convenient amenities. The Parking and water fountain – Last Major Shortcut loop from Argonne is a moderate 19.3-mile trail that specifically highlights the presence of both parking and a water fountain, making it a practical choice for a longer ride.

What other outdoor activities can I find near the mountain bike trails in Apple Valley?

Beyond mountain biking, Apple Valley, Minnesota, is rich in outdoor activities. You can explore the expansive Lebanon Hills Regional Park with its 20+ miles of trails and eight lakes for hiking, fishing, or kayaking. The Minnesota Zoo offers outdoor exploration with wildlife, and the Mississippi River Greenway and Minnesota River Greenway provide additional trails and scenic views.

Are there any bike parks or dedicated skills areas in Apple Valley?

Yes, Apple Valley features dedicated areas for honing your mountain biking skills. The Skills Park is a notable highlight, and routes like the Skills Park – Black Loop loop from Savage are designed to incorporate these technical challenges.

Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Apple Valley?

Many of the mountain bike trails in Apple Valley are designed as loops, offering a continuous riding experience. Examples include the Parking and water fountain – Last Major Shortcut loop from Argonne and the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Apple Valley?

While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the region's extensive park systems and river greenways suggest that spring, summer, and fall would offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking. Winter riding might be possible on some trails, but conditions would vary significantly with snow and ice.

Are there any unique features on the trails, like a hand-pulled bike ferry?

Yes, for a unique experience, check out the View of the Minnesota River – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This 15.2-mile easy trail includes a hand-pulled bike ferry as part of its route, adding an adventurous element to your ride.

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